Conway

  • Town of Conway Massachusetts
  • 32 Main Street
  • 413-369-4235
  • Contact Us

Board of Health

Additional Page(s)

Public Office Hours as follows:

  • Mon: 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  • Tues: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
  • Wed: 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  • Thur: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
  • Frid: 8:30 am – 1:00 pm / closed Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend

Meeting Schedule: 2nd and 4th Mondays, 5:00 PM at the Town Hall

Next 3 meetings:

  • Mon, Jun 12 at 5:00 PM -- Town Hall Office Meeting Space
  • Mon, Jun 26 at 5:00 PM -- Town Hall Office Meeting Space
  • Mon, Jul 10 at 5:00 PM -- Town Hall Office Meeting Space

Members

5 of 5 seats. 3 years each seat.

Previous meetings:

Confirmed Rabies - Raccoon

FRANKLIN COUNTY REGIONAL ANIMAL CONTROL

For Immediate Release

Confirmed Rabies – Raccoon
Location: Conway, Massachusetts – Main Street (Center of Town)
Date: March 29, 2023

On Friday March 24th, Franklin County Regional Animal Control was contacted by a resident who resided in the Center of Town (Main Street) in Conway. The resident advised that a raccoon had been acting unnaturally towards them. Based on the information provided by the resident the raccoon was collected by Franklin County Regional Animal Control and submitted to the Massachusetts State Laboratory for testing.

On March 28th Franklin County Regional Animal Control received word from the Massachusetts State Laboratory that the raccoon had tested positive and was confirmed to have rabies. We are urging everyone to make sure your pets are up to date with their rabies vaccines. If you are in doubt, please check with your veterinarian.

PLEASE DO NOT APPROACH any wildlife especially if it is acting in a sickly or aggressive fashion, observe from a safe distance and report all sightings. If you locate an animal acting in a sickly or aggressive fashion please contact the Shelburne Regional Communications Center at 413-625-8200. If you have general questions please reach out to Franklin County Regional Animal Control directly at 413-774-7340 or by email at animalcontrol@fcso-ma.us

Further media inquires should be directed to Regional Health Agent Randy Crochier at rcrochier@frcog.org. No further information will be released by this agency at this time.

Title V and Septic Systems

For inquiries regarding septic systems contact our Title V and Septic Health Inspector Carl Nelke at cnelke116@gmail.com.

The Septic tank must be pumped as part of each Title V inspection, unless that tank has been pumped within 1 year prior to the inspection and such pumping was property reported by the pumper to the Board of Health. Such a procedure must be performed by a pumper with a current license to perform such services. The Board of Health may, at its discretion, waive this requirement.

''To Pump, or Not to Pump, that is the question...''

March 20, 2023 By Amy Pemberton, Technical Assistance Provider, Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP)

Septic baffle

This is an age-old question that owners of septic systems seem to ask one another. Although misguided, there seems to be some sense of pride of ownership that the longer one can go without pumping their septic tank, the better, more robust system they must have. Not so. Please tell all of your friends!

A septic tank system needs regular maintenance, just like your car needs oil changes and spark plugs replaced, just like your HVAC system needs filters replaced and periodic checks by professionals. Think of your septic system as you would any other household system that needs some care and upkeep. Household wastewater contains disease-causing bacteria and viruses, as well as high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. If a septic system is well-maintained and working properly, it will remove most of these pollutants. If not, a malfunctioning septic system can be a public health and environmental hazard by allowing exposure of harmful contaminants to humans, pets and the natural world. Not to mention, it is a violation of the law.

Figure3 1

Figure from EPA

Conventional septic systems are designed to be relatively low maintenance, but low maintenance does not equate to NO maintenance. A septic tank system is essentially comprised of five basic components:

  1. A household collection system that removes all sewage from the dwelling and transports it out into the holding tank, or septic tank.
  2. The septic tank is where the treatment of the waste begins, and its routine maintenance is an important step in the functional lifespan of your system. From the septic tank, the liquid portion of the sewage, called effluent, exits the septic tank, and moves out to the third component.
  3. A distribution box, as the name implies, this box equally distributes the effluent as it moves out into the fourth component,
  4. A drain field or absorption trenches.
  5. Lastly is the soil, in which your septic system is installed, is the final step of treatment for a conventional septic system.

The septic tank works to “sort” the household waste as it allows for the contents to settle and separate. The solids settle down to the bottom of the tank, while the fats, oils, and greases float to the top. This action ideally results in no solids moving out into the drain field where they can potentially clog up the absorption trenches. If too much water is introduced into the septic tank at one time (i.e.., multiple consecutive loads of laundry), this can disrupt the settling time and potentially result in solids moving out into your drain field. Adequate settling time is important, so it is vital to keep this in mind in your routine household activities. Over time, the solids at the bottom of the tank accumulate and need to be removed. If the tank is not pumped out every three to five years, the holding capacity, and the ability to separate the waste will be diminished, thus creating a situation in which solids can more easily move into the drain field.

Septic tanks contain naturally occurring anaerobic bacteria which help break down solids in the tank and support the biological processes that treat human waste. Some people believe that they can reduce the frequency of septic tank pump outs by introducing “additives” to their septic system. There are different types of additives on the market. Biological additives add more bacteria to the tank, and in doing so, can create conditions in which the bacterial populations compete against each other, potentially causing negative effects. Enzymes are another type of septic tank additive. The enzymes are thought to aid in the breakdown of certain types of solids and limit the buildup of the scum layer (fats, oils, greases). Additives claiming to eliminate the need for pumping usually re-suspend solids, moving them to the drain field, thus clogging lines and leading to system failure. Septic tank additives are not regulated and there is no scientific evidence to support their benefit. A healthy septic tank should not need any additives, but again, it does need routine inspection and pumping every three to five years.

Some general rules of the road when it comes to caring for your septic system:

  • Use less water. Space out laundry sessions throughout the week. This avoids overloading the system over a short period of time. Be sure to notice any leaking toilets or dripping faucets and repair them right away.
  • Keep toxic chemicals from going down the drain. Properly dispose of solvents, paint, varnish, oil, and pesticides, instead of putting them down the drain. Use bleach and household cleaners sparingly.
  • Keep solids out. Cigarettes, left over medications, handwipes, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, tissues, kitty litter, and other solid items should go into the trash, not your septic system. Left over medications could kill the “good” bacteria in your tank.
  • Keep grease and fat out of your kitchen drain. Pour the oil into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
  • Limit use of garbage disposal. Using a garbage disposal increases the amount of water and solids in your septic tank, requiring more frequent pumping.
  • Divert runoff and drainage water. Never drain swimming pools or hot tubs into your septic system or drain field. Downspouts and roof runoff should be directed away from your drain field to limit hydraulically overloading the soil.

Regular maintenance pump fees can average between $250 to $500. This expense every three to five years is a bargain compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a failing septic system. Replacement costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more depending on the type of system needed. A well designed, healthy septic system that is properly cared for should last a homeowner 20-30 years or more. Your septic system is a silent partner in keeping your home life humming. As lovable as your car, which you maintain regularly and as just as aggravating when it breaks down?! To find more information about being Septic Smart, go to: https://www.epa.gov/septic/septicsmart-week-quick-tip-videos.

By Amy Pemberton, Technical Assistance Provider, Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP)

Now Available

You can now pay your permit fees online!

Permits you can pay for include:

  • Disposal System (Sewage) Construction Permit
  • Disposal Works Installer's Permit
  • Permit to Remove, Transport, and Dispose of Waste
  • Well Permit

Pay BOH Fees

INFORMATION ON COVID-19 IN CONWAY

  • December 31, 2022 update about COVID-19. As of today, there is one positive case in town. Please note that this number will be updated weekly on Mondays, and is reflective of the current number of cases. Some past cases will have resolved, and new cases identified. You can check here https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-response-reporting#covid-19-weekly-public-health-report-, yourself on Thursdays to see how many cases Conway has had in total. Scroll down to the COVID-19 Weekly Public Health Report.

For information about the symptoms of COVID-19 and how coronaviruses spread https://www.mass.gov/info-details/about-covid-19-symptoms-and-spread

For information on COVID testing sites - click https://www.cic-health.com/stopthespread

Stay Safe and Be Well!

Wondering where to get the COVID-19 vaccine? Click https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccination-locations

The Conway Board of Health is comprised of 5 members elected by town voters on a rotating basis. Each member serves a term of 3 years. The BOH is responsible for:

Enforcement of the State Sanitary Code (witnessing Title 5 inspections; perc tests; approval of septic system plans/issuing of permits for new and upgraded septic systems) Also responsible for monitoring safety of drinking water, receiving reports and issuing new well drilling permits

Hazardous materials and solid waste disposal (enforcement of State Recycling laws; issuing waste hauling and use permits; collection of hazardous waste and community education)

Enforcement of the State Sanitary Code Minimum Standards of Fitness for Human Habitation. Responsible for inspections of rental housing, commercial kitchens, restaurants, retail food, B & B’s, recreational camps and public beaches

Monitoring, investigating and reporting infectious and dangerous disease cases, including rabies. Monitors and issues permits for remediation of beaver and muskrat activities. Supervises animal control officer and barn inspector

Emergency preparedness. Works with federal, state and regional communities and organizations to develop/coordinate facilities and resources, such as sheltering, food and water, treatment, isolation and quarantine, to respond to broad public health emergency situations.

Family burial plots. Provides written permission for establishment of family burial plots on private property.

  • New Board of Health Regulations: In 2018, two new regulations were adopted regarding the sale of tobacco products and retail marijuana products.
  • Walk-In Town Nursing Hours at the Conway Town Hall: First Fridays 9 am – noon, Lisa White RN
  • Notice to employees: As of April 1, 2018, the new Pregnant Workers Fairness Act goes into effect. For more information about the new law.

Upcoming Flu and COVID Vaccination Clinics

Thursday March 23rd 3pm to 6pm Montague Catholic Social Ministries (geared to Spanish-speakers, all welcome to attend
Saturday March 25th 11am to 2pm Buckland Public Library, 30 Upper Street, Buckland, MA
Monday March 27th 3pm to 5pm Orange Senior Center, 135 E Main Street, Orange, MA - COVID ONLY
Friday March 31st 4pm to 7pm Montague Senior Center, 62 5th Street, Turners Falls, MA

What you need to do:

  • Register online at: frcog.org/covid recommended, although walk-ins will be welcome
  • Bring your ID, health insurance card, and COVID vaccination card!

Gat a free $75 gift card with any COVID vaccine or booster

  • Anyone over 6 months old may be eligible for a flu and COVID vaccine, and can receive them at the same visit.
  • Insurance card needed for flu vaccine. If uninsured, call a public health nurse at (413) 774-3167, or bring a $28.00 check.
  • All COVID vaccines/boosters are no-cost. A single Omnicron-specific (bivalent) booster is available to those 5+ who received any other COVID vaccine at least 2 months ago.

More information at frcog.org/covid

COVID Testing Options: Winter 2022/23

PCR Testing:

CVS & Walgreen’s sign up on-line

Mail-in PCR test is available at no cost to all eligible Massachusetts adults who: are experiencing symptoms, have recently been in contact with someone with COVID-19, live or work in a congregate setting, or who have otherwise been recommended for testing. More information at frcog.org/covid or at www.ondemand.labcorp.com/ma-testing

Where to find no-cost rapid tests:

  • Private insurance, MassHealth, and Medicare now cover rapid antigen tests to have at home (up to 8 tests/4 boxes per person each month).
  • Private insurance may allow online orders or reimburse the cost of test kits from a receipt. Check with your insurance company about coverage.
  • If you have MassHealth or Medicare, use in-person pharmacy pick up:
    • Go to the pharmacy, where they will create a "prescription" to bill MassHealth or Medicare directly. This process may take awhile.
    • Do this at: Big Y, CVS, Rite Aid, Stop & Shop, and Walgreens.

Don't toss those tests out!

  • The shelf life of most rapid tests has been extended by the FDA, as manufacturer's evaluate how long rapid tests are effective.
  • Before you throw out your 'expired' rapid antigen test, check the FDA's list of each test kit type and its expiration date extension. The list is available on frcog,org/covid

An up-to-date list of where to get a COVID test or vaccine in Franklin County can be found at: https://frcog,org/covid

Do You Have COVID-19 and Have Symptoms?

Free COVID-19 Treatments Available

A new telehealthervice can tell you if the COVID-19 pill is right for you. The pills can be sent to your pharmacy or to your home — for free! s

How it works:

1. Call 833-273-6330 or visit color.com/covid-19-treatment-ma
2. Tell us about your symptoms.
3. Speak with a clinician to see if you are eligible.
4. Pick up your prescription at your pharmacy or get it delivered to your home.

For more information, visit mass.gov/CovidTelehealth or call 833-273-6330.

Vaccine Information for Franklin County

Vaccine for ages 6 months and older, booster for ages 5 and older, all vaccines are no cost. Updated Omicron-specific (bivalent) booster is available for ages 5+ who received a shot (end of primary series or booster dose) at least two months ago. Register online or walk-ins welcome. Bring your ID, insurance card and vaccination card. You can receive both the flu and COVID vaccines during the same visit.

Who can get a COVID-19 vaccine now?

Booster dose eligibility depends on age & type of primary series vaccines received:

Schedule a COVID vaccine appointment in Franklin County:

Big Y: (Address: 237 Mohawk Trail/Route 2, Greenfield) Online booking only. Note: the link only works with the following browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge. Schedule at Big Y here
Rite Aid: (Address: 107 Main Street, Greenfield) Click here to book vaccine appointment online or call (413) 774-2201. Note: scheduling website available in both English and Spanish.
Walgreens (Address: 5 Pierce Street, Greenfield and 240 Avenue A, Turners Falls) Click here to book vaccine appointment online or call (800) 925-4733. Note: online scheduling requires signing in to Walgreens online pharmacy account.
Baker Pharmacy (Address: 52 Bridge Street, Shelburne Falls) Call 413-625-6324 to schedule.
Walmart: (Address: 555 East Main Street, Orange) Click here to book appointment online.
Other Options: Visit the State VaxFinder site. For individuals who are unable to use VaxFinder, or have difficulty accessing the Internet, the COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Line is available by calling 2-1-1 (Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM, Saturday and Sunday 9 AM – 2 PM). The COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Line is available in English and Spanish and has translators available in approximately 100 additional languages.

How to Schedule a Pop-up Vaccination Clinic at workplaces or events

  • Click here to request a Walgreens clinic at your event/location.
  • Click here to schedule a CVS clinic onsite — minimum 30 people.
  • Click here to schedule a state mobile clinic.

Homebound Vaccination

Is it very hard for you to get to a vaccination appointment? Someone can come to you to administer a vaccine. Call the State Homebound Vaccination Program phone number 833-983-0485.

Vaccine Safety Information

Vaccines are safe and are one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you from getting sick from COVID-19. The vaccine doesn’t contain the virus that causes COVID-19, so it can’t make you sick. You may experience mild side effects after getting the vaccine, but this is a sign that your body is learning how to protect you. The COVID-19 vaccine was developed quickly but all of the

same safety steps were followed for this vaccine that are used for all vaccines.

Accessing Your Vaccination Record

Need a copy of your vaccination? Your primary care provider can access your vaccination record through the MA Immunization Information System.

Board of Health Files

Name Uploaded Date
   Disposal System Construction Application - 1A.pdf 2022-09-22 15:28:13
   Disposal System Construction Permit - 2A.pdf 2022-09-22 15:28:15
   Haulers Application Rev 21.pdf 2023-04-06 09:10:34
   HPAI-Memo.pdf 2022-08-30 15:00:59
   Installer Application Rev 21.pdf 2022-09-22 15:10:20
   Local Upgrade Approval - 9B.pdf 2022-09-22 15:30:14
   Local Upgrade Approval Application - 9A.pdf 2022-09-22 15:30:18
   Marijuana-regs.pdf 2022-08-30 15:00:05
   Preventing-Mosquito-Bites-MA-Dept-PubHealth-2020.pdf 2022-08-30 15:00:41
   Purple-Shield-Vaccine-Consent-ALL-Patients-Ver-4-22-21.pdf 2022-08-30 15:00:44
   Tobacco 21 Reg 20180403 D.pdf 2022-09-22 15:12:16
   Vaccine-Consent-Form-for-Individuals-12-17-Years-of-Age-05-12-21.pdf 2022-08-30 15:00:47
   Well Permit Application.pdf 2022-09-22 15:11:33
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